Tolerant of neglect, it is widely cultivated as a houseplant, but can also be grown outside in shade where temperatures remain above −5 °C (23 °F).

[5] According to a study published in 2018, A. elatior appears to be mainly pollinated by fungus gnats (Cordyla sixi and Bradysia spp.).

[6] Although sometimes thought to be of Chinese origin,[7] the species is in fact native to southern Japan,[1] including Kuroshima,[8] Suwanosejima[9] and the Uji Islands.

[7] A. elatior is well known in cultivation and has a reputation for withstanding neglect, giving rise to its common name of cast-iron plant.

Its leaves and roots may be subject to browsing by hoofed mammals such as deer, as well as rodents and rabbits.